Blackpool man at ‘the end of the road’ after 95 offences

A “prolific offender” who, after 95 offences, reached the end of the line with the Probation Service, has been jailed for 24 weeks.

Richard Sleet was on a suspended sentence when he shoplifted in Fleetwood.

He also landed in trouble for not complying with the terms of a community sentence made earlier this year.

Sleet, 31, of Sutherland Road, Blackpool, had been committed by magistrates for sentencing at Preston Crown Court. He admitted an offence of theft.

Roger Baldwin, prosecuting, said the defendant stole two bottles of vodka from the Best One store on Lord Street, Fleetwood, last October.

At the time, he was still on a suspended sentence, imposed in 2012 for handling stolen goods.

Julie Taylor, defending, said Sleet knew he would be sent to prison by the judge.

“Probation feel they have reached the end of the line with him and can offer no alternatives to custody. He accepts that position.”

Judge Philip Sycamore said: “Pretty much everything has been tried. None of it has worked. To your credit you recognise the court has no option but to deal with you by way of an immediate custodial sentence.”